Description
This Smoked Taco Dip is a deliciously creamy and cheesy appetizer infused with smoky flavor from the smoker. Blended with classic taco seasonings and topped with fresh vegetables and optional bacon, it’s perfect for parties and game day gatherings. Served warm with tortilla chips, this Tex-Mex-inspired dip offers a unique twist with smoky depth, making it a standout crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
Cheeses and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For Serving
- Tortilla chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F and allow it to come to temperature to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
- Mix the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and taco seasoning mix. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly blended.
- Prepare the Dip for Smoking: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a 9-inch cast iron skillet or a shallow dish that is safe for smoker use. This ensures the dip cooks evenly inside the smoker.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top of the dip. If using, scatter the cooked and crumbled bacon on top of the cheese layer.
- Smoke the Dip: Place the skillet inside the smoker. Allow it to smoke for 45-60 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and the top has a slight golden color, infusing the dip with rich smoky flavor.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the smoker and let the dip rest for 5 minutes to settle. Then, top it with chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, jalapeños if desired, and fresh cilantro for brightness and texture.
- Serve: Serve the smoked taco dip warm alongside tortilla chips for dipping, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking.
Notes
- For extra flavor and protein, add smoked shredded chicken or seasoned ground beef to the cream cheese base before smoking.
- If you don’t have a smoker, bake the dip in the oven at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Adjust the level of jalapeños to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dip.
- Use a smoker-safe dish like cast iron to maintain heat and ensure even cooking.
